Pakistan News – Nawaz and Obama Discuss Bilateral Relation

The President of United Sates, Barack Obama on Friday night discussed bilateral relations and evolving situation in the region with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif over telephone. The prime minister expressed satisfaction at the direction of Pakistan-US bilateral ties, which he said were on an upward trajectory since his government came to power last year.President Obama noted that the two countries enjoy strong and robust relationship. He was pleased to see that the government of PM Sharif had determined the right economic priorities and was successfully overcoming the challenges.

Obama informed the prime minister of his forthcoming visit to India.

Recalling his invitation extended in Washington, Sharif conveyed the expectation of the people of Pakistan to welcome President Obama to Pakistan sometime in the future. The president also assured him that he would undertake a visit to Pakistan at an early date, as soon as the situation normalizes in the country.

Discussing the regional situation, the prime minister referred to the improvement of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, as manifest in President Ashraf Ghani’s recent visit to Islamabad.

Nawaz and Obama Discuss Bilateral Relation

The US president appreciated the Pakistani premier’s efforts in this regard and called it pivotal for the peace and stability in the region.

Prime Minister Sharif referred to his visit to India earlier this year, which was aimed at taking Pakistan-India relations forward.

Subsequent unfortunate steps on India’s part, including cancellation of Foreign Secretary level talks and the unprovoked firing across the LoC and Working Boundary resulting in civilian casualties, indicated that India was averse to normalization of relations with Pakistan, said the FO statement.

“Thus, while we remain open to the resumption of bilateral dialogue, the onus is on India to create a conducive environment in this regard.”

“President Obama expressed his understanding for our position,” it added.

The prime minister also urged President Obama to take up the cause of Kashmir with the Indian leadership, as its early resolution would bring enduring peace, stability and economic cooperation to the region.

The two leaders agreed to stay engaged to further strengthen Pakistan-US relations in their common desire to promote peace and prosperity in South Asia.